What Can Teachers & Parents Do to Help Students Develop a Positive Self Concept?

Children who possess a positive self-concept are more likely to hold realistic views of themselves and to face new situations while trusting their own abilities. They tend to feel a sense of belonging and acceptance and see themselves as good and capable. Teachers and parents play an important role in developing a child's positive self-concept through role-modeling, coaching and environment.

  1. Listen

    • To build a positive self-concept, children should be encouraged to label and express their feelings. By validating that what a child is feeling is normal, the child may be less apprehensive about trying new things. Statements such as, "Yes. I was scared the first time I rode a bike, too, but I did it anyway and I learned it was a lot of fun," encourage children that it is legitimate to feel scared when approaching something new even if they are scared. Allowing children to ask questions and giving them age-appropriate answers helps them to develop a realistic view of their skills, knowledge and abilities, therefore leading to a positive self-concept.

    Set Boundaries

    • Some children lack confidence because they have been hurt, ridiculed or are repeatedly unsuccessful when trying new things. Over time, these failures can lead a child to form a negative self-concept. Setting appropriate boundaries creates situations where children can safely take risks, according to an article on the National Association of School Psychologists website. Clear expectations, reasonable behavioral standards and caring discipline help children learn self-control. Good self-control leads to feelings of success in social and intellectual realms, leading to a positive self-concept.

    Teach Problem Solving

    • Adults who allow children to make mistakes within a safe environment communicate a message to them that they are capable of solving their problems independently. Solving problems and overcoming obstacles leads a child to think he is a worthy, competent and independent individual. Over time, these self-beliefs translate into a positive self-concept. When a mistake occurs, parents and teachers can help children problem solve by discussing strategies that have worked for other children in similar situations and allowing the child to practice until he gains mastery.

    Allow Success

    • Parents and teachers can help shape a child's environments by allowing them to hone their skills. Consistent feedback and positive reinforcement encourage children to keep trying. Giving them a head start, matching them with an opponent of similar skill, giving assignments or tasks within their skill level and reinforcing the idea of a child's "personal best" rather than winner or loser, all ways in which adults can help children build positive self-concept.

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